Magistrates

Aged 18 (formerly 27) - 65, In good health with satisfactory hearing, Of good character, not bakrupt, Not associated with the administration of justice, for example police officers, Not have significant court orders against them

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6 'qualities' needed to be a magistrate

Good character, Understanding and communication, Social awareness, Maturity and sound temperament, Sound judgement, Commitment and reliability

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How many magistrates on a bench?

3

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What is the maximum sentence in a magistrates court?

£5000 fine or 6 months imprisonment

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Percentage of guilty pleas

80%

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Role of a magistrate

Deciding a verdict (guilty or not guilty), issuing a search or arrest warrent, grant bail,

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Disadvantages of magistrates

case hardening, inconsistancy in sentencing, , reliance on the clerk, offten middle-aged and of middle-class

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Advantages of magistrates

Cost, local knowledge, providing a cross-section of society, training, few appeals, legal advisor on hand.